March 4, 1929-the first flight of the Boeing Model 204 flying boat.
In 1928, Boeing built the Model 6E flying boat, designed for 3 passengers. After the release of 5 aircraft, it was decided to increase the capacity. The new model received the designation Model 204.
Externally, the Model 204 was almost identical to the Model 6E. It was a single-engine biplane with a pusher propeller. The main differences affected the cabin (now it could accommodate 4 passengers) and the engine (installed more powerful Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp in 410 hp) Cruising speed-153 km / h, range — 563 km.
7 Model 204 flying boats were produced, most of them produced by a subsidiary of Boeing Aircraft of Canada under the designation C-204 Thunderbird. The planes were used by private owners, as well as by small airlines-Gorst Air Transport, Western Canada Airways - to transport passengers and mail.